New Zealander · Whanganui, New Zealand · Born 31 May 1991Brodie Retallick is a New Zealand lock and two-time Rugby World Cup winner, named World Rugby Player of the Year in 2014.
Brodie Allan Retallick was born on 31 May 1991 in Rangiora, near Christchurch, New Zealand, and attended Christchurch Boys' High School, a school that has produced numerous All Blacks including Dan Carter. His uncle, John Ashworth, played 24 Tests for the All Blacks as a prop between 1978 and 1985, giving Retallick an early family connection to the national team he would go on to represent. Retallick made his provincial debut for Hawke's Bay and progressed to the Chiefs in Super Rugby before earning his All Blacks debut against Ireland in 2012. Standing 2.04 metres tall, he quickly developed into one of the most complete locks in world rugby, combining traditional lineout and scrummaging dominance with unusually deft offloading skills and mobility around the park. Retallick won the World Rugby Player of the Year award in 2014, becoming the youngest player ever to receive the honour, and was a key member of the All Blacks squad that won the 2015 Rugby World Cup. He was selected for the British and Irish Lions series against New Zealand in 2017, and continued to be a first-choice selection for over a decade. Retallick earned over 100 Test caps for New Zealand and was voted, alongside legendary lock Colin Meads, the greatest All Black lock of all time in a 2021 public poll. He has played extensively in Japan for Kobelco Steelers, continuing his career there after retiring from international rugby.
World Rugby Player of the Year 2014; All Blacks lock
How They Played
Retallick combines traditional lock skills with exceptional mobility and ball-handling ability for his size. His lineout throwing accuracy and timing are exemplary, while his work rate around the field is remarkable for a forward of his stature. He possesses soft hands and excellent passing skills, often functioning as an additional playmaker in loose play.
Lasting Impact
Retallick redefined the modern lock position by demonstrating that forwards could possess the skill set and mobility traditionally associated with backs. His influence helped establish a new template for second-row forwards in international rugby.
Career Honours
- 2015 Rugby World Cup winner
- World Rugby Player of the Year 2014
- Rugby Championship titles
| Club | Period | Apps | Tries | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chiefs | 2012–2023 | 175 | 0 | #4 |
| Hawke's Bay | 2010–2013 | 36 | — | — |
| Kobelco Kobe Steelers | 2023–2024 | — | — | — |
 New Zealand | — | 102 | 5 | — |
New Zealander Athletes